When it comes to debt collection, it\u2019s important to find a balance between looking out for scams and ensuring you pay the debt you actually owe. You should begin by establishing whether or not you owe the debt the collector is contacting you about. Debt negatively affects your credit report and credit score. Make sure you take action to resolve any debts you owe.<\/p>\n
To verify that the collection contact is legitimate, ask questions to find out the name of the collection agency\u00a0or collection law firm and where they are located.\u00a0Also, request details about the debt including\u00a0the name of the original creditor, the account number, and the balance claimed. You can write to the collector and request a validation and itemized calculation\u00a0of the debt.<\/p>\n
As a consumer, you\u2019re protected against harassment and other unfair practices by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)<\/a>. It\u2019s important to ensure collectors aren\u2019t using unfair tactics against you. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors cannot:<\/p>\n Once you know whether or not you owe the debt, figure out an action plan. If you owe the debt, you may want to establish a payment plan. You’ll need\u00a0the collector to provide written\u00a0documentation showing the total balance owed.\u00a0Then, figure out how much you can pay each\u00a0month until the obligation is satisfied. If you enter a payment plan with a collector, be sure to obtain written confirmation of the payment terms,\u00a0the payment due date, and where your payment should be sent. Keep accurate records of all payments made and when they were applied\u00a0to your account.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re convinced that you do not owe the debt, write a dispute letter to the collector.\u00a0 Include any proof that shows the debt was already paid or does not belong to you.\u00a0 Be sure to keep a copy of your dispute letter for your files.\u00a0 Request the collector respond to you in writing.<\/p>\n At any time throughout the process, you can write a Cease and Desist letter to the debt collector that states they need to stop contacting you. This may be be helpful if the debt collector is contacting you\u00a0at work,\u00a0during odd hours, or if you feel your consumer rights are being violated. Be sure to send your correspondence to\u00a0the collector by certified mail with a\u00a0return receipt. It’s important for you to have proof\u00a0that\u00a0your letter was received.<\/p>\n A Cease and\u00a0Desist\u00a0letter does not make the debt go away.\u00a0Often\u00a0the collector will transfer the debt to another collector\u00a0or\u00a0back to the original creditor. Once a Cease and\u00a0Desist letter is sent to a collector, that collector is not permitted to contact you again or\u00a0attempt collection. If\u00a0the collector contacts you after receiving your Cease and\u00a0Desist letter, reach out to a qualified consumer protection attorney to evaluate whether your rights have been violated.<\/p>\n Flitter Milz is a nationally recognized consumer protection law firm that represents victims of abusive collection tactics.\u00a0 Contact Us<\/a> for a free evaluation of whether your consumer rights have been violated.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" When it comes to debt collection, it\u2019s important to find a balance between looking out for scams and ensuring you pay the debt you actually owe. You should begin by establishing whether or not you owe the debt the collector is contacting you about. Debt negatively affects your credit report and credit score. Make sure … <\/p>\n\n
Take the Appropriate Action<\/h2>\n
Stop Collection Contact<\/h2>\n
Seek Free Legal Help\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n